Energy Usage

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The energy that’s used in our homes accounts for a big chunk of overall energy consumption. Because of this, an increasing number of people are now looking for ways to make their homes more energy efficient. If you’re interested in how and why so much energy is used in the home, then you should find the information below of great interest.

Factors that affect energy consumption

Below are the main factors that affect energy consumption in the home.

  • Climate – Climate has a big impact on energy consumption in homes. In the UK, the seasons tend to be fairly mild compared to some countries but during the winter months, UK homes use a huge amount of energy in order to stay heated. The rising cost of energy bills have caused a lot of people to look into ways to conserve heat in their home, whether it’s by getting cavity-wall insulation, getting solid front and back doors that conserve heat; or by getting their loft or attic insulated.
  • Number of energy consuming devices – The average home now uses more energy-consuming devices than ever. Although heating the home itself still accounts for the majority of the energy used, electrical appliances such as refrigerators, televisions and computers all contribute a lot to the overall amount of energy the average home uses. 

Types of energy used

Natural gas and electricity account for the vast majority of energy that’s used in homes. Natural gas is used for heating, and electricity is used for lighting and to power the majority of household appliances.

Green alternatives

  • Solar panels – Solar panels have become much more affordable over the last few years, prompting a growing number of people to have them installed at their home. Solar panels generate energy from the sun that’s used to power a home. Solar panels are much more environmentally friendly than burning fossil fuels and they also allow you to save on your energy bills considerably.
  • Low-energy bulbs – Incandescent bulbs have been phased out in the UK since 2009. This is due to EU regulations that state they are an energy-wasting item. However they may be about to become available again due to a breakthrough that means they use considerable less energy. Currently the majority of homes in the UK use low-energy bulbs, which is helping to make a big difference when it comes to energy consumption in the home.